What started as a pilot with only one device less than a year ago, the Obie has become a linchpin of quality time for residents and their families, not merely serving as a medium for leisure, but also a gateway to an immersive virtual playground. With its wide range of interactive games and activities, it's a not-so-hidden gem that incites cognitive engagement, motion, and social bonds. In the era where technology is finally catching up to the needs of older adults, devices like the Obie projector are transforming how we perceive and engage in play at any age.

Cyrelle Muskat, in her capacity as the Director of Quality, Systems and Wellness, and known for her exceptional innovative contributions, spearheaded the incorporation of an Obie pilot project at in the Apotex, an initiative facilitated by BIO. The installation of Obie has subsequently resulted in noteworthy success. Engagement metrics demonstrate that over 94 percent of the home's residents have been active participants in Obie games. Furthermore, staff observations confirm a noticeable improvement in resident mood following their interactions with this new technology.

“When observing the residents playing games using the Obie projector, the expression of glee on their faces is truly pleasing,” says Sabina Ntim, a Baycrest recreationist. “The projector challenges the residents’ problem-solving skills and tests their hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills, while also effectively targeting their memorization abilities. After the initial trial period, Baycrest was able to purchase the Obie technology, thanks to the generosity of community donors Rhona Day and Bryan Kerdman. To date, three projectors have been installed into Baycrest’s long-term care home, the Apotex Centre, Jewish Home for the Aged.

To learn more about the Obie projector, or to schedule a demo, email us at innovation@baycrest.org.

Baycrest is committed to providing the best possible care for its residents. To do this, we've developed the Possibilities by Baycrest™ Innovation Pathway, a tool that helps staff choose and use the right technology for each person's unique needs. This approach ensures that each resident receive care that is tailored to their individual circumstances, resulting in better outcomes and a more positive experience overall. BIO has supported Baycrest staff by providing training, guidance, and troubleshooting.

BIO also supports staff and works with the tech vendors to monitor the use of the technology and assess its impact on the resident's care. If necessary, adjustments are made to the technology or the way it is being used, to ensure that the resident's needs are being met as effectively as possible. To further support our staff, BIO devised strategic workflows that encompass a range of resources and initiatives. Staff can now access Get To Know Me Tool online via RedCap, participate in monthly data reviews and training sessions, and utilize digital resources. 

Hearing is essential to brain health and healthy aging. Recent studies indicate that untreated hearing loss is a leading risk factor for dementia that may be preventable with timely hearing health care. To ensure timely access to information about hearing health, BIO supported the launch of an online hearing screening tool that helps to detect hearing loss. Users have instant access to their results that let's them know if they may have hearing loss, and those who want to know more can connect with a Baycrest Audiologist for a complimentary 15-minute chat.

This initiative has already attracted approximately 1000 users who have completed the screening tool, with 64 of them requesting a consultation with an Audiologist. The overwhelmingly positive response to the pilot is reflected in its impressive 95% net promoter score, demonstrating our unwavering commitment to providing accessible and high-quality services to our community.

Click here to learn more or to access the hearing screening tool.